Firefighter Storms Menri Races to Kit Out Ghana’s Fire Crews
A brave firefighter from Cosham is on a mission to protect those who risk their lives with nearly no kit at all. Storms Menri, a Cosham firefighter and Army Reservist, has launched a fundraising drive to send discarded Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS) gear to firefighters in Ghana – who often tackle dangerous blazes with next to no protective clothing.
From Top-Notch Kit to Bare-Bones Firefighting
While Storms and his UK colleagues gear up in fire-proof jackets, helmets, thick boots, and gloves every shift, Ghana’s firefighters face shocking shortages. Storms witnessed this stark contrast firsthand during a training exercise in Ghana last December.
“The kit that they use is so basic and that is a very scary feeling,” Storms said. “In Ghana, the fire service turns up for a job knowing what to do and wanting to help, but not having the kit to do it with.”
Running for a Cause: 70 Miles to Safety
To kick off the fundraising, Storms is pounding the pavement with a gruelling challenge – a 10-mile run every day for seven days. This mirrors the 70-mile Isle of Wight coastal path and symbolises his commitment to the firefighters in Ghana.
He needs to raise at least £8,000 for a shipping container to deliver the old but still usable HIWFRS kit, teaming up with charity FIRE AID.
“If you didn’t have a passion for firefighting in Ghana, you wouldn’t do the job,” he added. “I know that anything we can do to help will be so appreciated. If we are able to get this done, I will be so proud.”
Training and Donations to Save Lives
Storms aims to return to Ghana with United Kingdom Rescue Operation, bringing vital firefighting and medical training to the crew.
Claire Hoyland, coordinator at FIRE AID, explained:
“First responders in many developing countries save lives every day while working without basic personal protective equipment. They risk their own lives and often can’t provide proper care, which means lives are lost that could have been saved.
“FIRE AID donates decommissioned but perfectly usable fire and rescue equipment along with professional training. This not only saves equipment from scrap but saves lives.”
How to Support Storms’ Mission
Want to help Storms protect Ghana’s firefighters? Donate now at justgiving.com/fundraising/storms-menrifireaidghana and back this life-saving cause.
